Hello Lovers is an Austin, TX based group that plays intense, jarring, gritty and unmelodious music. There are inflections of American blues played on cello, violin, accordion, euphonium, and the sea harp. Of course the sax, guitar and trombone add traditional jazz elements to the experimental sound. The vocals are reminisce of Devendra Banhart, sometimes inflections of Conor Oberst but with something extra that can only be described as crowing, with a haunting quality that adds depth. At times, J.C. King, the singer sings off alone, beyond the instruments, a chilling sound lent to the lyrics.
I can't say that they immediately grabbed me as a band I would come to enjoy listening to. It took me probably about 6 listens which most people are not willing to give to a band they've barely heard of. This is a band that makes it worthwhile. I would love to see them perform live because sitting in front of my computer and listening while I do work or write in this blog I feel takes away the essence of what this band has to offer.
Their EP, Vanity Fair, was followed by their first full-length album Gone With The Wind. I've only listened to Vanity Fair but I look forward to getting the full album, and of course seeing them live, even if I have to go to Texas to do it.
(edit) Apparently they are playing in Manhattan tonight. Thanksgiving break, I plan to see a show for every night I'm home because I've missed so many this fall.
Vanity Fair EP
1) My Girlfriend Is A Gay Pirate
2) The RIbbon Moves
3) Birthday Suit
4) A)Fall b)Fell Flora
5) Good News For People With Tiny Black Hearts
6) Mine. I've Always Liked the Sound of That Word
7) The Low Arms of Light
One of the only videos I could find of them playing live, though not of the highest quality.
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